WWF: UN Report a Clarion Call for Show of Ambition in Warsaw

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) issued the following statement from Lou Leonard, head of climate change programs, in response to today’s United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Emissions Gap Report 2013:

“The report is a stark reminder that the clock is ticking and this decade is when we must secure a better future for ourselves and our children. Global emissions need to peak and begin to decline in the next few years if we are to avoid exceeding 2C of warming and the serious risks that come with it.

“The good news is the report provides a map to closing the gap between our current path and safer shores. This route doesn't have to be difficult; pursuing energy efficiency and moving away from dirty fossil fuels to renewable energy technologies makes sound economic sense today and will save billions tomorrow.

“Delegates in Warsaw must be willing to follow this map to secure near-term ambitious emissions reductions, while agreeing on the pillars of a 2015 climate deal in Paris. Decisions made in the next few weeks are critical to reducing serious risks and seizing significant financial benefits.”